Dental implantation: The various concepts of recovery between all-on-4/6 and basal implants
Two of the most widely discussed methods for full dental arch rehabilitation are the All-on-4/6 implant technique and basal implantology. Both aim to restore function, aesthetics, and quality of life, but they are based on different principles and clinical approaches.
| Full restoration with basal implants | Method All-on-4/6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Concept | Basal implantology uses implants that are placed in the cortical (basal) bone, which is highly mineralized and less prone to resorption. The implants are designed to anchor in deep, stable bone structures beyond the alveolar ridge. This technique allows immediate loading with crowns and complete restoration of function and aesthetics, even in patients with severe bone loss, without the need for grafting. |
The All-on-4/6 method is based on placing 4 or 6 implants in the anterior part of the upper and lower jaws. The posterior implants are tilted at an angle to maximize bone contact and avoid anatomical structures such as the sinus or the nerve canal. The focus is on osseointegration in the available alveolar bone and immediate loading with a fixed prosthesis. |
| Procedure | Placement directly into cortical bone; functional loading and final prosthesis within 3–5 days. | Minimally invasive, temporary prosthesis is placed within 72 hours, final prosthesis after the osseointegration period. |
| Limitations | Requires specific training and experience; not widely applied in all clinics. | Requires sufficient bone in the anterior jaw. |
| Need for bone grafting | Usually not required. | Often necessary, especially in cases of atrophy. |
| Advantages | Enable treatment in cases of severe bone loss without grafts; fast and stable rehabilitation; lower risk of peri-implantitis. | Generally a more affordable solution compared to full rehabilitation with basal implants. The method is more widespread due to its broader applicability and relatively easier placement technique, practiced by a larger number of implantologists. |
| Disadvantages | Less widespread; requires special training for the implantologist. | In cases of insufficient bone, additional procedures are needed; risk of peri-implantitis if oral hygiene is poor. |
| Future maintenance | Regular check-ups; lower likelihood of complications; with proper care, no need to replace the prosthesis after years. | Regular check-ups, maintenance, and possible repairs/replacement of the prosthesis after years. |
Why do we at Medstom Clinic work with basal implants?
In our practice, we have chosen to apply exclusively basal implantology, as it provides the most reliable solution for patients with total tooth loss and severe bone atrophy:
- The high stability in difficult cases – basal implants are anchored in deep cortical bone, which does not resorb over time;
- Suitable for all adult patients without exception;
- Definitive fixed prosthesis within days – patients leave the clinic with permanent teeth within 3–5 days, without prolonged stages and temporary solutions;
- Lower risk of complications – thanks to the special shape and smooth surface of basal implants, the risk of peri-implantitis is significantly reduced;
- Predictable result – our experience shows that this method provides excellent longevity and functionality, even in patients who are not suitable candidates for All-on-4/6.
Because of these advantages, we do not offer the All-on-4/6 method, since it often requires temporary prostheses, a longer time for final restoration, and carries a risk of peri-implantitis. With basal implantology, we can offer patients a faster, more stable, and more reliable solution.
